Why the form of iron matters for infant formula and supplementation?

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Why the form of iron matters for infant formula and supplementation?

Iron deficiency (ID) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are globally still prevalent in infants. Around 50% of the infant have ID and around 25% IDA. When infants have an ID or IDA, this may impact the immune system, the growth of the central nervous system, delayed behavioral and mental development, which may lead to below average school achievement¹.

Iron absorption is depending on many factors. Absorption of non-hem iron from breast milk is usually assumed to be up to 50%, while absorption from infant formula and iron-fortified foods is usually assumed to be approximately 10%². As the effective lower limit and toxic upper limit are tightly capped, it’s import to have a safe and good bioavailable form of iron, comparable to the absorption of iron coming from breast milk.

Multiple studies in adults and infants have shown that iron Bisglycinate chelate can be a superior form of iron in terms of efficacy and tolerability.

Join us to learn why the form of iron used in infant formula or supplements matters and what the latest science says about the most effective and best tolerated form of iron.

Agenda:

The importance of iron in the body and for babies – infants
Iron absorption and tolerability
Scientific comparison on the best form of Iron
Product formulation strategies for Infant Formula & Supplementation

¹ EFSA Journal 2013, 11(10)-3408
²JPGN, volume 58, nr 1, January 2014

What will you learn

Importance of iron for infants

Why ID and IDA is a problem for infants?

Efficacy and tolerability of iron

Absorption and toleratbility of iron.

The scientifically proven benefits

The latest scientific overview for iron bisglycinate chelate.

Product formulation strategies

Strategies to improve ID and IDA for infants.

Speakers

Jonathan Bortz, M.D.

Director of Scientific & Commercial Development, Balchem Corp

Dr. Bortz graduated from Medical School, Johannesburg, South Africa (WITS), and specialized in Endocrinology at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. He was in practice for 15 years before entering the pharmaceutical industry and has a special interest in and developed many nutritional prescription products.

Dustie Butteiger, BSc

Nutrition Science Manager Balchem, Human Nutrition and Health

Dustie received her Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Missouri State University. She’s been a scientist in the Life Science’s Industries for over 20 years with research experience in Pharma, Food Ingredient, MedDev, and Supplements. Her pre-clinical and clinical research is published in peer reviewed scientific journals ranging from cardiovascular disease, lipid metabolism, and sports nutrition.

Tom de Leeuw, MSc

Technical Manager Infant Nutrition, vaneeghen

Studied at Wageningen University with a bachelor’s degree in Food Technology and a master in Food Process Engineering. More than five years of experience with the infant formula industry and a specialist on micronutrients for infants. At vaneeghen focusing on scientific developments, innovation and product development.